Forget the North Pole; Princeton is the holiday magic capital of the world, if you ask me!
Festive garlands draped on archways and windowsills, trees wrapped in lights, carolers and musicians spreading holiday cheer–clearly even Santa agrees – you’ll find him strolling the sidewalks of Palmer Square all season long! And don’t forget the newest addition to Princeton’s Winter Wonderland, the eco-friendly outdoor skating rink! The kids and I have been enjoying going for a glide on the synthetic surface and scooping up some delicious hot chocolate from Halo Pub or the bent spoon!
While holiday shopping might seem like a chore, it’s impossible to feel anything but cheerful when you’re surrounded by this kind of magic. Like Santa himself, I’ve made my list and checked it twice (honestly, more like a dozen times) and I’m headed out to shop Palmer Square for all the good little boys and girls (and grown ups) on my list.
For the kiddos:
Is it me, or does the excitement of walking into a toy store stick with you long after you’ve grown up? Shopping at jaZams on Palmer Square is as exciting for me as it is for my kiddos… but since I’m on a holiday shopping mission, they’ll be sitting this visit out. Lego? Check. Cool puzzles and unique card games for the tween? Check. Stocking stuffers for all? Check, check, check. Really, it’s all fun, and it’s all there.
I’ve got a little niece to spoil, and I’d be remiss in my cool Aunt role if I didn’t keep her looking stylish, so I’ll scoop up some sweet outfits for her at ToobyDoo. (If you’re looking for some sweet holiday attire for your kids, pay them a visit!)
For the teen:
Notoriously hard to shop for, right? However, for her, a visit to Dandelion will do the trick. Stylish jewelry at a range of price points, from trendy to timeless–you’re sure to find something she’ll “OMG” about. Don’t forget Urban Outfitters–let their hip staff point you in the direction of the coolest finds of the season. And when in doubt? Gift Card! Playa Bowls, the bent spoon, or Halo Pub are slam dunks, cause they’re Princeton’s ultimate teen hangout spots!
For him:
The holidays are my chance to up my guy’s style game: a new winter coat, a chic sweater or two, etc (if your guy is like mine, he’d never shop for clothes on his own!). Brooks Brothers has everything from the casual to the formal, and Barbour’s outerwear is as stylish as it is functional. Pair that with a bottle of locally distilled whiskey from the Princeton Corkscrew, and he’ll be toasty warm all season long!
For her:
Now this list could go on and on… PJ’s? Luxe skincare? The perfect bag? Whether you’re in search of a luxe gift for the lady on your list, or a sweet treat for a hostess, you’ll find everything and more on the Square. My picks: Lace Silhouettes Lingerie for jammies and robes, Bluemercury for heavenly skincare, luluemon to add a few new, stylish pieces to her workout attire, Zoe for the bag or party dress of her dreams, or J. Crew for a chic look to take her in to the new year.
For the party:
Check off your own list by making your party a delicious–and memorable–one. A beautifully, fully-loaded cheese plate from Olsson’s Fine Foods will get your guests talking, and eating!
Pair your cheeses with the perfect bottle from the Corkscrew (psst: they’ll deliver your wine to you!) and make sure you’ve perfected your tablescape with classy and clever seasonal accents from Homestead Princeton, and a stunning arrangement of fresh flowers from Princeton Floral.
And stay in the spirit all season long with fun on Palmer Square! Ice skating! Strolling Santa! Weekend music! Holiday Trolley Tours from Princeton Tour Company! And of course, that big, beautiful tree wrapped in every color of lights (the perfect backdrop for a selfie with your favorite little elves.)
Looks magical doesn’t it?! See you out there!
xoxo Polly